The India-Sri Lanka cricket rivalry is one of the most iconic rivalries in the sport. The two teams have met each other in a number of ODI matches, and the competition has always been fierce.
In this article, we take a look at the 7 highest wicket-takers in India vs Sri Lanka ODIs. We also break down the numbers to see which bowler has been the most successful in this fixture.
Here is a list of the top 7 highest wicket-takers in IND vs SL ODIs:
1. Muttiah Muralitharan
Muttiah Muralitharan, widely regarded as one of the greatest bowlers in the history of cricket, tops the list with 74 wickets in 59 matches against India at an average of 31.78.
In addition to his 74 wickets against India, Murali also has 534 wickets in 350 matches to his name. He is known for his exceptional control and accuracy, and his ability to take wickets consistently throughout a match.
2. Chaminda Vaas
Chaminda Vaas, another legendary Sri Lankan bowler, is second on the list with 70 wickets in 60 matches against India at an average of 31.61.
In addition to his 35 wickets against India, he also took 400 wickets in 322 matches overall in his ODI career. Vasy is known for his ability to swing the ball both ways and take wickets with the new ball.
3. Zaheer Khan
Zaheer Khan, one of India’s greatest bowlers, is third on the list with 66 wickets in 48 matches against Sri Lanka at an average of 32.19.
In addition to his 66 wickets against Sri Lanka, he took 282 wickets in 200 matches overall in his ODI career. Zak is one of India’s greatest bowlers, known for his accuracy and ability to take wickets on any surface.
4. Harbhajan Singh
Harbhajan Singh, India’s premier spinner, is fourth on the list with 61 wickets in 44 matches against Sri Lanka at an average of 26.95.
In addition to his 61 wickets against Sri Lanka, he took 269 wickets in 236 matches overall in his ODI career. Known for his ability to take wickets with spin and bounce, the Turbanator is one of India’s top spin bowlers.
5. Ajit Agarkar
Ajit Agarkar, the top Indian bowler, is fifth on the list with 49 wickets in 24 matches against Sri Lanka at an average of 20.61.
In addition to his 49 wickets against Sri Lanka, he has taken over 288 wickets in 191 matches overall in his ODI career. Ajit Agarkar aka Bombay Dunk is known for his control and variation of deliveries.
6. Irfan Pathan
Irfan Pathan, one of India’s most successful fast bowlers, is sixth on the list with 45 wickets in 30 matches against Sri Lanka at an average of 29.13.
In addition to his 23 wickets against Sri Lanka, he took 173 wickets in 120 matches overall in his ODI career. The swing king is known for his speed and ability to swing the ball.
7. Lasith Malinga
Lasith Malinga, known for his unique slinging action and pinpoint accuracy, is seventh on the list with 44 wickets in 39 matches against India at an average of 45.50.
In addition to his 34 wickets against India, he took 338 wickets in 226 matches overall in his ODI career. Malinga the Slinga is known for his ability to take wickets with yorkers and slow balls.
These top wicket-takers have all contributed significantly to their teams in IND vs SL ODIs, and have helped to make these matches some of the most exciting and competitive in cricket history. Their skills and talent with the ball have made them some of the most respected bowlers in the game, and their records speak for themselves.